Barrett's Esophagus

Definition

The esophagus is a tube that carries food from your mouth to your stomach. Chronic esophagitis is inflammation of the esophagus. Barrett's esophagus is a complication of chronic esophagitis.

Barrett's esophagus is a change in the cells that line the esophagus. Normal cells are flat-shaped squamous cells. Barrett's esophagus cells are shaped like a column. This cell change is called
metaplasia. It is a premalignant phase that may result in cancer of the esophagus if it is not treated.

Causes

The exact cause of Barrett's esophagus is not known. It may result from damage to the esophagus caused by the chronic reflux of stomach acid. Frequent or chronic reflux of stomach acid into the esophagus is called
gastroesophageal reflux disease
(GERD).

Surgery

A part of the upper stomach is wrapped around the esophagus. This is done to reduce further damage caused by GERD.

Esophagectomy

This procedure removes the part of the esophagus that has the Barrett's. The esophagus reconstructed using a part of the stomach or large intestine.

Endoscopic Eradication

Endoscopic eradication destroys the Barrett's cells in the esophagus. Eventually, the body starts making normal esophageal cells where the Barrett's cells used to be. The most common endoscopic eradication procedures include:

Photodynamic therapy—uses laser light

Radiofrequency ablation—uses radiowaves

Monitoring

Your doctor may recommend endoscopy anywhere from every 3 months-5 years depending on how abnormal the cells in your esophagus look

Prevention

The best way to prevent Barrett's esophagus is to reduce and/or treat the reflux of stomach acid into the esophagus. This is usually caused by GERD. Self-care measures for GERD include:

Do not smoke. If you smoke,
talk to your doctor about how to successfully quit.

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.